In this paper a conceptual model of instruction “the six mirrors of the classroom” used as a frame for teaching a learning
topic, the microorganisms are depicted. The paper consists of four sections: (a) the six mirrors of the classroom model (SMC);
(b) the SMC as implemented in the expository and cooperative modes of instruction in classrooms and results; (c) a “Journey
of Inquiry into the Wonderful World of Microorganisms” (JIWWM), developed according to the Science–Technology–Environment–Peace–Society
(STEPS) approach; and (d) teaching and learning the JIWWM, in ninth-grade classes, within the SMC model. The results show
that science topic can be taught in the frame of the mirrors of the classroom. When the instructional goals of the teachers
used the mirror “1, classroom organization” and mirror “6, pupils’ social behavior” and the third ring around the all six
mirrors cooperative skills were practiced, academic outcomes were achieved, and attitudes toward environmental preservation
and peace improved. The SMC model can serve as a valuable tool for teachers, since it can design their teaching and learning
settings in a more controlled environment, in terms of objectives, teachers’ and students’ social behaviors, and academic
outcomes. 相似文献
Background: Research on biosecurity is important as New Zealand’s agricultural export-driven economy is susceptible to biosecurity threats. Because New Zealand is reliant on the primary industries to drive its economy, bovine diseases such as foot and mouth could have a devastating effect on the economy.
Purpose: Making sure that the general public are aware of the importance of maintaining biosecurity is crucial in order to protect New Zealand’s economy, human health, the environment, and social and cultural values. New Zealand Year 9 students’ knowledge of biosecurity was gauged as these students represented the next generation of individuals tasked to maintain biosecurity in New Zealand.
Design: A qualitative approach using the interpretive mode of inquiry was used to investigate the knowledge about biosecurity with New Zealand Year 9 students. Questionnaires and interviews were the data collection tools.
Sample: One hundred and seventy-one students completed a questionnaire that consisted of Likert-type questions and open-ended questions. Nine students were interviewed about their knowledge.
Results: The findings showed that New Zealand Year 9 students lacked specific knowledge about unwanted plants, animals and microorganisms. These students saw illicit drug plants as unwanted plants and mainly saw possums as unwanted animals in New Zealand. Their knowledge about unwanted microorganisms in New Zealand was dominated by human-disease-causing microbes. A lack of knowledge of biosecurity issues in New Zealand was seen as the major factor in these students limited understanding of biosecurity.
Conclusions: Based on these findings, it can be said that knowledge of an issue is critical in enabling individuals to develop an understanding about biosecurity. Explicit teaching of biosecurity-related curriculum topics could provide New Zealand Year 9 students with an opportunity to develop knowledge about biosecurity in New Zealand. 相似文献
